Defenders honor fallen members during National Police Week Published May 20, 2016 By Airman 1st Class Taylor Bourgeous 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Team Fairchild celebrated National Police Week May 17-20 with various events throughout the base. National Police Week pays special recognition to law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. "Since Oct. 1, 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed it into law, May 15 has been National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week of May 15 has been National Police Week," said Lt. Jay McNall, member of the Spokane County Sheriff's Special Weapons and Tactics Office . The 92nd Security Forces Squadron held multiple events for Team Fairchild members to enjoy, including Military Working Dog demonstrations and a law enforcement meet and greet. SWAT and crime prevention units, local police departments and the Office of Special Investigations set up interactive booths. "We often forget to thank our police officers, until circumstances force us to acknowledge how important their gift of service is," McNall said. A Memorial Retreat Ceremony was held in remembrance of fallen law enforcement members with the U.S. flag being retired. To end the week, the 92nd SFS created an obstacle course, which included assembly of a M240 machine gun, tire flip, 1.5 mile run, Humvee push, shoot house scenarios, team push-ups in a mud pit, land navigation and buddy carry. "Over 200 Law Enforcement personnel comprised of enlisted, officers and civilians, in roles of patrolman, investigators, dispatchers, K-9 handlers and OSI agents serve and protect Fairchild," said Maj. Kevin McMahon, 92nd SFS commander. "Police Week is a time to celebrate LE professions, to honor those who have served and those who have sacrificed as a LE officer."